Egypt 1-1 Iran: Pharaohs Reach Knockouts for First Time

Egypt secured their place in the FIFA World Cup knockout phase for the first time in their history after a frantic 1-1 draw with IR Iran in Group G. The Pharaohs will now face Australia in the Round of 32 as Group G runners-up, while IR Iran's World Cup fate hinges on the outcome of the remaining games in Groups J, K and L.

Match Summary

Egypt made the perfect start as Mahmoud Saber converted from close range in the fifth minute after Alireza Beiranvand could only parry Mohamed Salah's deflected strike. IR Iran were handed a golden opportunity to level in the ninth minute when Mehdi Taremi won a penalty after being fouled by Mohamed Abdelmonem, but Mostafa Shobeir saved his spot-kick.

Shobeir pulled off an even better save to stop Milad Mohammadi finding the bottom corner, only to see Ramin Rezaeian react fastest to the loose ball and equalise from the tightest of angles in the 14th minute. Shobeir's fine first-half display was almost undone on the stroke of half-time when he completely misjudged a cross. Luckily for him, Shoja Khalilzadeh headed wide.

Second Half Action

Egypt controlled possession for long spells after the break, aware Belgium's lead over New Zealand in the other Group G game could determine their final group placing. IR Iran came close to a dramatic late winner that would have moved them above Hossam Hassan's team into second, but Shojae Khalilzadeh's stoppage-time strike was ruled out for offside after a VAR review, before Shobeir saved from Saeid Ezatolahi.

Reactions

"We're unbeaten and we're proud of that. I said from the start that it would be a tough group stage. It's an honour to get through to the next round. I'd like to thank my players, because they've brought immense joy to our fans. I'm not thinking about our next opponent; we're ready to play against anyone. We're capable of playing our own style of football, of adapting, respecting every opponent. We won't be afraid of anyone." - Hossam Hassan, Egypt head coach

"I am very proud to take part in the World Cup, the greatest stage of football. We had a great result tonight from this match and we are proud to make it to the knockout stage and make all Egyptian fans happy. It is a huge privilege to score in the World Cup. We will study Australia very well and we will try to be ready for the next match." - Mahmoud Saber, Egypt midfielder

Prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026, Egypt had played in three World Cups without winning (D2 L5). Ramin Rezaeian (IR Iran) also commented on the match.